Page 36 of Snowed In with the Bosses

Alexander woke next. He came awake faster than any person should, his eyes startlingly clear.

Clara nuzzled her cheek into my palm.

“What’s the plan for today?” I locked eyes with Clara, who broke away from me and sat up.

She concentrated a little too hard on the blanket around her waist. “Work.” Her throat bobbed in a hard swallow. “We should work today. You have computers and everything we need, right?” She continued before he answered. “Or Harvey could fly us back to Summit. Harrington is depending on us.”

“We can work here.” Alexander rolled to his feet and stretched.

How on earth could the man get out of bed when we had an exceptionally sexy Clara lying there? I’d rather spend the day in front of the fire with Clara.

I flopped onto my back. “Breakfast first. I refuse to work on an empty stomach.”

“Fine.” Alexander scrubbed both hands down his face. “I’ll check the generators. You’re in charge of the kitchen.”

“What, no staff at the mansion?” Clara clicked her tongue, the tone mocking. “How do you survive?”

“On takeout and Marissa’s goodwill to come clean once a week.” I ignored Alexander’s glare and shrugged. “Marissa loves her job.”

“She’s well compensated for her time.” Alexander gave Clara a reassuring look and held out a hand.

Clara took it and allowed him to help her to her feet. She broke off contact as soon as she’d gained her balance.

What the fuck was that about? Two days ago she could barely stay away from us and now she skittered off like a frightened mouse. My eyes narrowed even as Ethan shoved at me to get me off the bed. “Roll the other way.” I shoved back, then stood just to piss him off.

Ethan grumbled under his breath and threw the blanket into the center of the bed.

“You’re so pissy when you wake up. God.” I rolled my eyes, enjoying the startled laugh from Clara, and made my way to the double doors leading out into the foyer. “Breakfast in half an hour. Don’t be late or you’re eating cold food.”

“Might be cold anyway,” Alexander called out to my back. “I have no idea what’s in the refrigerator.”

“Right. Because you’re never in the kitchen.” Unlike me. I whistled on the way across the polished linoleum. I’d become blind to Alexander’s wealth over the years, but I saw it afresh now through Clara’s vision after recognizing her shock yesterday. Alexander had expensive tastes, and it showed. From million-dollar art on the walls to the brand-new, top-of-the-line appliances that he never used, the house breathed wealth and privilege. It almost made me feel bad. Almost.

Thirty minutes later, they all walked into the kitchen, freshly showered and wearing varying expressions that ranged from Alexander’s annoyed look to one that almost resembled fear on Clara’s face. What was she concerned about? “How’s your mom?” I kept my voice gentle and welcoming, hoping to get back whatever trust we’d lost overnight.

She lifted one shoulder and let it fall. “Same.” There was a hollow echo in her words that cut me to the bone. “I wish I could see her in person.”

“You will.” Reaching over the counter, I squeezed her hand.

Clara flipped her palm over and wrapped her fingers around mine. For that brief moment, she allowed my touch to comfort her, but then she pulled away, retreating to that place where I could not follow.

“We can work for a few hours, but I’d rather not run the generators all day.” Alexander cut into his egg, allowing the yolk to run across his bacon. “Things should be up and running in another day, but there’s no need to risk it.”

“So we’re staying here?” Clara’s wide eyes took in the expansive kitchen. Her throat bobbled again, and she grabbed her glass of water, gulping a good portion before setting it down again.

Alexander’s expression remained carefully neutral, which meant he’d noticed Clara’s sudden shift as well. “Is that okay?”

“Yes. Fine.” Clara answered too quick, her attention riveted on her plate. She picked at the food, pushing it around more than eating. “I think I’ll get started. Where are the computers?”

“I’ll show you.” Ethan pushed his plate aside and stood. “Good breakfast, Liam.”

I took the compliment in stride and shoved the dirty dishes into the dishwasher. Alexander remained behind, his slow, methodical process of eating keeping me in the kitchen as curiosity took hold. “What?” I asked once Clara and Ethan were out of earshot.

He swirled his water around the glass like it was a fine wine. “Something’s bothering Clara.”

“No shit.” I took his empty plate and glass and added them to the dishwasher.

Alexander stood and faced the hall where Ethan’s voice trickled back. Clara answered him, that same dullness in her voice. “See if you can find out what it is.”

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